What is the story about?
The Recording Academy, the organisation known for presenting the annual Grammy Awards, introduced a new category that honours ‘Best Asian Pop Music Performance’.
K-Pop fans were hopeful to see a major group representing Korea on the global stage. However, as per the latest development, BLACKPINK could not submit its latest third mini album DEADLINE. BTS and Stray Kids also did not submit their music for the 69th Grammy Awards. The reason behind BLACKPINK’s Grammy miss is not related to the other two popular K-Pop bands.
Why BLACKPINK can't qualify for Grammy 2027?
BLACKPINK’s DEADLINE album included five-track, JUMP, GO, Me and my, Champion, and Fxxxboy. It released on February 27, 2026. According to the 69th Grammy Awards rules, the eligibility period was August 31, 2025, to August 28, 2026. Despite this, the album could not qualify because JUMP released as a single on July 11, 2025. The eligibility period had not started then.
In addition to this, the other four tracks, GO, Me and my, Champion, and Fxxxboy, were performed in English, and hence they did not meet the language criteria. Looking at the requirements, solo releases of BLACKPINK members also did not qualify.
Rosé was first K-pop artist to perform on Grammy stage
Though BLACKPINK couldn’t submit music for Grammy Awards 2027, Rosé received three major nominations for her collaborative hit APT with Bruno Mars in Record of the Year, Song of the Year, and Best Pop Duo/Group Performance categories. She was also the first solo K-pop artist to perform on the main Grammy stage.
BTS backs out of Grammy 2027 submissions
Before BLACKPINK, BTS announced in August 2026 that the group would not submit music for the 2027 Grammy Awards. Big Hit Entertainment wrote on Instagram, “We have decided not to submit for Grammys this year. Rather than music being divided by region or language, we hope music itself can be heard and loved for what it is. We are always grateful to ARMY and everyone who is always with us.”
Stray Kids takes a step back
On behalf of Stray Kids, JYP Entertainment recently informed that the group will not submit an entry for the 69th Grammy Awards. The reason was not revealed.
Best Asian Pop Music Performance category rules
According to The Recording Academy, “Best Asian Pop Music Performance recognises artistic excellence in Asian pop music performances originating from or widely recognised within Asian markets, including but not limited to K-pop, J-pop and C-pop, with meaningful use of one or more Asian languages. Awards are presented to the performing artist(s).” The category has sparked controversy due to its norms.
The 69th Grammy Awards will be held in February 2027.
